These encounters have been paused until Spring of 2026!

For more information about VIP Encounters and booking details call Sunset Zoo at 785-587-2737. 

(Three weeks notice and pre-registration required.)

Sloth Bear Encounter available on Fridays at 2:30pm

Red Panda Encounters available on Saturdays at 2:30pm.

Okapi Encounters available on Sundays at 3:30pm.

When participating in animal encounters, guests must adhere to the safety guidelines identified by Sunset Zoo. These safety measures include:

• Any participant under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• All youth participants must be at least 6 years of age or older.
• All participants must wear close-toed and close-heeled shoes. No sandals, flipflops, Crocs, or other shoes which do not fully cover the foot are allowed. No exceptions, rescheduling, or refunds will be provided to participants who arrive unprepared for their encounter.
• All participants will wear disposable face masks provided by Sunset Zoo.
• All participants will wear disposable rubber (non-latex, powder-free) gloves provided by Sunset Zoo.
• At any point during the program, if a participant does not follow explicit safety instructions or remain in designated spaces, Zoo staff have the right to terminate the remainder of the encounter without refund.

Our priority is the safety of all participants, staff and animals. Following these measures ensures a fantastic, safe encounter for everyone involved. Thank you for your cooperation!

After your encounter, photos will be emailed to the email listed on the account within one week.